Obsessive physical exercise can cause severe physical, psychological and social harm, according to new research published by academics in Hungary and Australia. The study, published in the Journal of Behavioral Addictions, found that between 3% and 42% of analyzed participants showed a risk of developing physical exercise dependency.
Researchers stated that the main distinction between a healthy passion for sport and exercise dependency is a progressive loss of control. This loss of control leads to obsessive and compulsive physical activity. Dependent individuals often continue working out even while suffering from injuries or illnesses, and they frequently experience withdrawal symptoms and emotional distress when barred from exercising.
The study highlighted that exercise addiction can also lead to social isolation. Dependent individuals frequently neglect their personal responsibilities towards friends and family in order to prioritize their fitness routines.
Evaluating exercise dependency
The investigation was conducted by researchers at ELTE Eötvös Loránd University and Széchenyi István University in Hungary, alongside team members at Flinders University in Australia. To gather data, the team analyzed differences across various population groups and athletic modalities using small sample sizes collected through structured questionnaires.
ELTE Eötvös Loránd University is a major public research institution based in Budapest, while Széchenyi István University is located in the Hungarian city of Győr. Flinders University is a prominent public research institution situated in Adelaide, South Australia. The Journal of Behavioral Addictions is a peer-reviewed medical publication focusing on non-substance behavioral compulsions.
To measure dependency levels, the researchers adopted the Exercise Dependence Scale. This diagnostic framework evaluates seven distinct aspects of an individual's relationship with physical exercise: tolerance, withdrawal, intention effects, lack of control, excessive time spent exercising, reduction of other activities, and continuance.
Treatment and rehabilitation options
Obsession with physical exercise is not currently recognized as an official medical diagnosis. However, researchers noted that a combination of psychotherapeutic interventions, rehabilitation strategies, and medical approaches adapted from other addiction treatments can help manage the condition.
Psychotherapy and cognitive interventions are standard practices used across clinical psychology to treat behavioral compulsions. Behavioral health specialists frequently adapt proven methods from eating disorder and mood disorder treatments to help patients rebuild healthier daily habits.
The study recommends that individuals who identify with symptoms of exercise addiction seek professional psychotherapeutic support. Researchers also suggested considering targeted medication interventions typically prescribed for related conditions, including eating disorders, anxiety, depression, and mood disorders.
Rather than forcing patients into complete abstention from physical activity, researchers advised structuring more moderate workout schedules. Stepwise adjustments allow individuals to maintain healthy movement while reducing compulsive exercise behaviors over time.
